Our team

I was delighted to be asked to become a Patron of the Therapy Garden, especially as I am a gardener at heart. I have seen at first hand from similar projects, how those with special needs, be they physical or mental, can benefit from a close contact with the earth and nature. I wish this project and all those involved every success.

Dame Penelope Keith DBE, DL

Gardening is my passion. Working with plants gives me a tremendous sense of wellbeing and perspective. I hope my knowledge and experience will benefit the fantastic work already done by the Therapy Garden which shows the power that gardening has to help everyone, whatever their needs.

Jez Stamp, Horticulturist of the Year 2013

Penny Walters – Therapy Garden Manager

Katrina Young – Senior Horticulturist

Hannah Bates – Senior Horticulturist

Carol Thorne – Horticulturist

With a background in nursing, Carol turned a keen interest in gardening into a new career and holds an RHS Level 2 Horticulture Qualification. She has worked in a number of voluntary roles with the National Trust, Age UK and the Physic Garden in Chelsea before joining as a volunteer at The Therapy Garden in 2016. Carol also works as a gardener at The National Trust’s Polesden Lacey and enjoys spending her time cooking and learning new craft skills.

Sue Ingram – Horticulturist/Finance & Admin Assistant

Eloise Bruce – Horticulturist

After a career in teaching, Eloise retrained in horticulture and horticultural therapy. She has worked in schools to support children with social and emotional difficulties and has also worked as a gardener for Age UK. She has a passion for supporting others in their wellbeing and learning through gardening and nature activities. In her spare time, Eloise enjoys growing vegetables, walking and generally spending as much time outdoors as possible.

Sally Wooding – Fundraising & Events

Sally’s background is firmly rooted in the hospitality industry with experience in managing both corporate and private sector events. Sally takes care of corporate fundraising and organising events to raise the profile of the charity and can often be found in The Therapy Garden kitchen making delicious chutney and preserves for our shop.

Andrew Kassell – Admin Assistant

Andrew joined The Therapy Garden as a volunteer and has become an invaluable member of the team, helping with general administration. He is a keen sportsman: he is the General Secretary of a local cricket club and also holds a Level 2 European Computer Drivers Licence.

Board of Trustees

Anne Everitt                            Chair, Safeguarding                     

Neil Jones                               Mental Health, Recruitment

Richard Shears                        Treasurer

Reeve Martin                           Health & Safety, Risk Management

Alex Wigley                             Horticulture     

Andrew Pearson